Macrominerals Flashcards
What are macromineral?
Elements required in largest concentrations after C, O, H, N in the dietMinerals are generally involved in skeletal structures, enzymes, hormones and homeostasisRequirements usually measured in percent of the dry diet
The macromineral
Calcium phosphorus sodium chlorine potassium magnesium sulfur
Calcium and phosphorus functions
The major minerals and bone must be present in 2:1 ratioMany other functionsCalcium critical for bone Clotting and nerve and muscle function
Calcium and potassium metabolism
The goal is to maintain blood calcium homeostasisCalcium enters or is released from the boneHormones triggered when the blood calcium falls or increases
Calcium and potassium sources
Bones milk Legumes
Calcium and potassium deficiency
Stunted growth rickets convulsions weakness syndrome of metabolic bone disease
Sodium and chlorine functions
Maintenance of water balance in the bodySodium also involved in transmission of nerve impulsesChlorine is also involved in regulating blood pH
Sodium and chlorine requirements
1:1 ratio needed
Sodium and chlorine sources
Primarily in saltTypically low in plant so herbivores may seek out concentrations through geophagy
Sodium and chlorine deficiency
Muscle cramps and weakness mental apathy incoordination
Potassium function
Water balance in the body transport of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood
Potassium requirements and sources
0.2-1.4% of dry dietSources: meet some fruits growing plants
Potassium deficiency
Where excepting animal subjected to prolong stress or diarrheaMuscle weaknesses or paralysis heart and respiratory weakness
Magnesium functions
Activates enzymes constituent of bones and teeth
Magnesium requirements and sources
0.03 – 0.3% of dry dietSources: common and most dietary plant and animal foods
Magnesium deficiency
Rare except in grass TetanySymptoms: growth failure staggering weakness spasms
Sulfur Functions
Constituted of sulfur containing amino acidsCritical component of:Cartilage and tendonsInsulinB – complex vitamins
Sulfur requirements and sources
Requirements: needed as part of methionine requirements of dietSources: dietary protein containing sulfur amino acidsFound in liver blood legumes
Sulfur deficiency
Causes symptoms of methionine and insulin deficiency
